The word bezoar is derived from the Persian word for antidote, and it was believed that it could cure poisoning when it was grinded up into a powder. The myth of the bezoar as an antidote reached Europe from the Middle East in the 11th century and remained popular until it started to fall into disrepute by the 18th century.
Bezoar stones were also popular items to place in cabinets of curiosities or wunderkammers, and this particular example was originally also displayed in a collection. It was part of the Royal collection of the Netherlands, which is attested for by a lacquer seal on the base, and a sticker on the bottom of the stand.
Another bezoar, which was found in the stomach of a royal horse, is still part of the Royal collection. It carries the same seal as this bezoar and was even originally stored in the same cabinet, since both bezoars carry the mention 'kast 3' (cabinet 3). You can find more information about the royal bezoar stone here.
GENERAL INFORMATION
Size: 25 cm / 10 inches high.
Weight: 580 grams.
Age: 17th or 18th Century, on a 19th Century stand.
Labels: the stand has a lacquer seal with a stork, the emblem of the city of The Hague, and 'Gemeente Apotheek 's Gravenhage'. The back of the plaque carries a handwritten note: 'kast 3'. The bottom of the stand is lined with marbled paper, and also carries a handwritten note: 'Gemeente Apotheek 's Gravenhage'.
Condition: In antique condition, with signs of its age. The bezoar stone displays several cracks, which were likely caused by storage in a dry environment. The bezoar was fixed to a white bone base at some point in time. The wooden stand is still in good condition.